Date of Award

2012

Degree Type

Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review

Degree Name

Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

Department Chair

John Cavenagh, PhD, PA-C

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this selective EBM review is to determine whether or not ginger extract (NT) effectively helps obese patient loses weight.

Study Design: Two randomized controlled studies to determine the effectiveness of ginger extract in weight loss and a cross sectional observational study.

Data Sources: Randomized controlled studies published after 2006 relating to ginger extract (NT) and weight loss. Data obtained using PubMed, CINAHL, and OVID databases written in English.

Outcomes Measured: Studies measured weight loss, food intake, and safety such as pulses and blood pressure. Subjects are evaluated at baseline with CMP, CBC and urinalysis weekly.


Results: One randomized controlled studies found a weight loss in the low dose group compared to the placebo “control” group and high dose group. In the same RCT, food intake was significantly decreases in the high dose group. Another randomize controlled studies found the placebo group to have more weight loss than the intervention groups but not statistically different from each other. However, all groups were statistically significant in decreasing food intake. Other outcomes measured were fluctuating within normal ranges and there are no significant differences.


Conclusions: Based on the systematic review of the two randomized controlled trials ginger extract is not an effective method for weight loss in the obesity population. However, according to the observational studies, ginger extract is among the top ten ingredients in weight-loss products. These products are available in retail store in many states. It is generally safe to take and it is believes to have anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effect.

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